view of the city of Vitebsk, Belarus

U.S. Relationship

Panoramic,View,Of,The,Historical,Center,Of,Minsk.,Belarus.,Sunset.
Panoramic,View,Of,The,Historical,Center,Of,Minsk.,Belarus.,Sunset.

U.S.-Belarus Relations

The United States supports a sovereign, independent Belarus which respects the rights and voices of the Belarusian people. On December 25, 1991, the United States recognized the independence of the Republic of Belarus, and on December 28, 1991, Belarus and the United States established diplomatic relations. On January 31, 1992, the U.S. Embassy was officially opened in Minsk. The embassy
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Panoramic,View,Of,The,Historical,Center,Of,Minsk.,Belarus.,Sunset.

U.S. Assistance to Belarus

U.S. assistance to Belarus focuses on promoting democratic principles and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, including by supporting independent media and capacity-building for civil society organizations. Since 1992, the U.S. government has provided over $1 billion in foreign assistance to Belarus. Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, the U.S. government has provided over $2 million in COVID-related assistance.
Panoramic,View,Of,The,Historical,Center,Of,Minsk.,Belarus.,Sunset.

Bilateral Economic Relations

Belarusian authorities have been reluctant to undertake systemic economic reforms necessary to create a market-based economy. The state sector accounts for half of all employment, and 60-70 percent of GDP. Belarus’ opaque legal and regulatory systems, and rule of law deficiencies create a challenging business environment. Since August 2020, the Belarusian authorities have increased pressure on private business.

Integrated Country Strategies

The Integrated Country Strategy is the four-year strategy articulating U.S. priorities in a given country. The Chief of Mission leads the strategy.

Investment Climate Statements

The Investment Climate Statements analyze a variety of economies that are or could be markets for U.S. businesses and provide information on the business climates.

U.S. Department of State

The Lessons of 1989: Freedom and Our Future